Yoga in the Morning

Ever wonder how every yoga instructor you meet has more energy than Jess on New Girl, even at a 7 a.m. class? Yeah, coffee (or green tea) may play a role, but caffeine isn’t the only explanation. The secret is, well, yoga.

We were skeptical when certified yoga instructor Brett Larkin told us too. But she says her 15-minute, a.m. routine centers the mind, balances the body, and jolts you awake with more lasting energy than an any coffee drink can provide.

Even on those mornings when you can barely drag yourself out of bed (we’ve been there), come to your mat—or simply your living room rug—for this sequence that anyone can do (no experience or toe-touching flexibility required!). Not only do these feel-good poses perk you up, but they’ll also open your hips, stretch your shoulders, and lengthen your spine. The result: You’ll walk away feeling centered, focused, and ready to own the day.